Golden Alexanders (Zizia aurea) is an easy-going native that should be in every pollinator garden. Its blooms fill the gap during that awkward period in late spring/early summer, when spring’s exuberance has faded but many other plants have yet to flower. Reminiscent in form of Queen Anne’s Lace, its sunny composite blooms are an attractive nectar source for butterflies and bees. Th ere’s even a tiny mining bee that specializes in this plant (Andrena ziziae, pictured), collecting pollen from Zizia only. Because it’s a member of the carrot family (Apiaceae), it’s also a host plant for the black swallowtail butterfly, whose caterpillars will feed on its thick, deep green leaves.
Zizia aurea tolerates quite a bit of shade but prefers to catch some sun on a regular basis. It can deal with any type of soil, including heavy clay or moist areas, and you can even grow it near walnut trees–it’s juglone tolerant.
So if you’re looking for a cheerful addition to your late-spring pollinator line-up, be sure to give Golden Alexanders a try!
Photo: © Heather Holm
